As our world grows ever more connected, important questions arise about cybersecurity and how we operate on a day-to-day basis.

Should you be concerned about someone hacking into the smart watch on your wrist? Can someone break into your home using your new Internet of Things (IoT) enabled lightbulb? Are concerns over the IoT unreasonable?

The University of Ottawa’s Telfer School of Management will explore these and similar questions during the upcoming edition of its Telfer MBA Conference Series on Nov. 18. The Future of Cybersecurity panel will be moderated by Telfer MBA Director Dr. Greg Richards and will feature guest speakers from Ottawa’s tech community.

Dr. Greg Richards

“The conversation is critical for businesses, but I think all of us need to be aware of what the vulnerabilities are for the data that we’re putting out there,” says Dr. Richards.

The session will explain the Internet of Things and address what real threats lie in the realm of data floating through cyberspace.

“People hear IoT and it doesn’t click that this is just another way of capturing and sending data,” explains Dr. Richards. “And anytime you send data over a wireless network, it could be hacked.”

The speakers will also address why someone might want to hack into another person’s data. Dr. Richards believes that with a greater understanding of how things connect, consumers can better protect themselves against threats.

“As we move into this world where everything is connected to everything, what should we be aware of,” he asks.

The Future of Cybersecurity takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 18 at the University of Ottawa in the Desmarais Building (DMS 1160) at 55 Laurier Ave. East.

This event is open to the public and is free to attend. Please register before 4 p.m. on Nov. 17.